Republican Gov. Sam Brownback has vowed during a debate to defend Kansas’ ban on same-sex marriage.

His Democratic challenger, Paul Davis, said Monday that he voted against the ban as a legislator because it would give the state an unwelcoming image. But he also said he respects the decision of voters to approve the prohibition. Davis added that the matter is now in the courts and there is nothing either candidate can do to impact its outcome.

The televised debate at KWCH studios in Wichita was the candidates’ third. Their final debate is Tuesday before the Kansas Association of Broadcasters meeting.

The back-to-back appearances come amid recent independent polling showing the governor’s race has tightened as outside money from has flooded into the state with negative ads.